The best cycling routes around Montancy

Montancy offers a wide selection of over 100 touring cycling routes. These routes traverse the Doubs River valley, providing options for various skill levels, from easy to difficult.

Yes, there are 7 easy touring cycling routes around Montancy. These routes generally follow the valley floors, offering gentler gradients and scenic rides along the Doubs River, ideal for those new to touring cycling.

Route lengths vary significantly. For example, the St. Ursanne Stone Bridge – Foyer Chapel loop from Ocourt is about 11.4 miles (18.3 km) and takes around 1 hour 25 minutes. Longer routes, like the Saint-Hippolyte – Saint-Hippolyte village loop from Ocourt, can be up to 33.4 miles (53.7 km) and take over 3 hours to complete, depending on your pace and stops.

Many of the touring cycling routes in Montancy are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the Saint-Ursanne Railway Viaduct – Doubs Valley loop from Soubey and the Suspension bridge over the Doubs – Doubs Valley loop from Glère.

The terrain around Montancy is characterized by the Doubs River valley, featuring significant elevation changes. You'll find routes along valley floors, more challenging climbs, and varied surfaces as you pass through rural areas and historical sites. Many routes integrate historical structures like railway viaducts and stone bridges.

The routes often pass by significant landmarks. You can see the St. Ursanne Stone Bridge, the historic Saint-Ursanne Old Town, and the scenic Doubs River itself. Natural features like Bief Waterfall and various lakes such as Étang Plain-de-Saigne are also accessible.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 180 reviews. Cyclists often praise the scenic river crossings, the integration of historical structures into the routes, and the varied terrain that keeps rides interesting.

Given the significant elevation changes and river valley landscapes, many routes offer excellent viewpoints. For instance, the St. Ursanne Stone Bridge – Saint-Ursanne Railway Viaduct loop from Glère provides views of both historical structures and the surrounding Doubs Valley.

While specific seasonal recommendations depend on personal preference, the region's characteristics of river valleys and varied terrain suggest that spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery. Summer is also popular, though some climbs might be more strenuous in warmer weather.

For families, the easier routes that stick to the valley floors and have less elevation gain would be most suitable. These routes often follow the Doubs River, providing a more relaxed and enjoyable experience for all ages.

Yes, the Bief Waterfall is a notable natural monument in the region. While not directly on every touring route, it is an attraction that can be incorporated into a ride or visited nearby.